May 2018 Update:
We are currently working on migrating the theoretical steroid curve plotter to a more stable server. During this time, I regret to inform y'all that the tool has been taken down.
Remember my
Theoretical Steroid Curve Plotter? Although technically the tool could be used to plot basal rates with the
cortisol pump, it sure was a pain to use.
Until now.
PLEASE NOTE: While it is much easier to type in basal rates, this version of the tool actually runs slower than the original. Do not be alarmed if it takes your browser 10-20 seconds to generate your theoretical curve.
Please only hit the "Plot" button once. And be patient.
How to Use This Tool
This tool was designed in Google Chrome, and therefore runs best in Google Chrome. Additionally, if you are having problems on your mobile device, please switch to a computer. If you notice a problem, send me a message on my
facebook page. We'll work to fix it.
For Google Chrome, please input the time in the format of HH:MM AM/PM. For all other browsers, please use military time. Confused about military time? For anything in the PM, add 12 to the number. 8:00 PM + 12 becomes 20:00. For anything in the AM, the time remains the same. You do not need to label AM or PM.
Limitations of This Tool
This tool plots the theoretical cortisol curve based off of mathematical formula for Solu-Cortef Hydrocortisone. It is assumed that the value in the blood stream increases in a linear fashion until the medicine "kicks in." It will then exponentially decay according to the biological half life.
Unlike with oral steroid medications, cortisol levels shall never fully decay to zero as long as the pump is delivering medicine. We are more closely able to mimic a functioning
HPA axis.
The following properties were used:
Steroid Type
|
"Kick In"
|
Biological Half Life
|
Hydrocortisone
|
30 minutes
|
1.5 hours
|
Please note that these are theoretical values. Each individual absorbs and clears medicine at different rates and absorption is effected by many different factors.
You will also note that there is no scale on the y-axis. This tool is designed to only provide a rough idea of a curve and not actual numerical data.
With the cortisol pump, we can utilize cortisol blood draws and even cortisol saliva curves to help tweak and fine tune our dosing. From a few beta testers, this tool appears to have a good correlation between actual labs and these theoretical curves.
The purpose of this tool is to start conversations that can perhaps improve your quality of life. We don't have to live miserably with Adrenal Insufficiency. We can be Clearly Alive.
Shout Outs and Thank You's
Thank you to M. Galland and W. Toth for enabling this version two update.
Medical Disclaimer
All content found on this website, including: text, images, audio, or other formats were created for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this Website.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the emergency department, or call 911 immediately.
By using the Tool, you acknowledge and agree to and accept these Terms of Service, including all policies and terms linked to or otherwise referenced herein.
Reliance on any information provided by this website and this tool is solely at your own risk.
Labels: Steroids
